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Plymouth

Plymouth's rich maritime heritage, stunning waterfront, marine industry and vibrant cultural life are just a few of the reasons why it is Britain's Ocean City.

With a population of 262,700 and a further 100,000 in its travel-to-work area, Plymouth is one the largest cities on the south coast. With an economic output of £5.2 billion and 107,000 jobs, it is also the most significant urban area on the South West peninsula and it plans to get bigger by expanding its economy and growing its population to 300,000.

Plymouth is renowned for its maritime history, which includes Drake and the Pilgrim Fathers, but the sea remains important to the city today, with 300 firms employing around 13,600 people now operating in marine industry sector.

Devonport is the largest naval base in Europe and is the UK’s main location for deep maintenance of surface and submarine vessels, while Plymouth is also home to global names such as Babcock Marine and Princess Yachts International.

The Plymouth and South West Peninsula City Deal aims to grow marine businesses, which already account for 14 per cent of the marine sector nationally.

Plymouth University is one of the largest centres of marine excellence in Europe, while more than 500 professional staff are employed through the Plymouth Marine Sciences Partnership.

The city has a strong reputation for events particularly world class sailing events such as the America’s Cup World Series as well as the National Firework Championships. Plymouth is the UK centre for the Mayflower 400 celebrations in 2020 to mark the 400th anniversary of the sailing of the Mayflower.